Winter 2019 The Official Magazine of Alpine Ski Club
SKIDOODLE 2019 1 Downhill, defined.
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First Tracks | Skidoodle’s exec editor weighs in Round Table | the board dishes on Club business New Directors | meet your newly-elected board members Retired Directors | acknowledging years of expert contribution Tip of the Toque | a banner year for accolades Rising Stars | who’s up and coming on snow Socialite Pages | Alpine in photographs From the Kitchen | meet our award-winning caterers Performance Tips | using the ruts, acing the park, and Alpine’s new OEFT Everyone’s Happy Place | stories from four Alpine families Chalet Tour | visit the recently-renovated Pridham/Abbot chalet Off the Slopes | area gems to know when equipment is stowed for the day Essentials Gear Guide | what’s hot for the 2018/19 season
Alpine Ski Club
Creative Direction
17-242 Arrowhead Road, Blue Mountains, ON L9Y 0S1 Phone: 705.445.0339 Fax: 705.445.3247 alpineskiclub.com • info@alpineskiclub.com
Design: Springfed Creative Executive Editor: Matthew Cody Managing Editor: Kirsti Suutari Advertising: Alana Mackle SKIDOODLE 2019 3
First Tracks
“An object either remains at rest or continues to move at a constant velocity unless acted upon by a force.” – Sir Isaac Newton (1642-1726)
I think Sir Isaac may have been onto something when he came up with that little gem. I like to think this idea applies to all things, and not just in the physical world of Newton’s Laws. While it certainly applies to the physics of skiing, what about something as abstract as a ski club? Should a ski club remain at rest? Should Alpine? I’d guess that most of our membership would say a resounding “No.” Make no mistake: Alpine Ski Club is a business, and our product is winter lifestyle. As a club, we offer our members and guests a premier skiing destination in Southern Ontario for their midweek and weekend pleasure. Not only do we provide a superlative on-hill product in terms of terrain and grooming, we also bring an exceptional off-hill experience with an inviting clubhouse that is the toast of the Niagara Escarpment. Our efforts over the last decade have not gone unnoticed as you’ll see from the ample quality accolades in Tip of the Toque (p. 09). This kind of recognition does not accrue to a ski club that offers the same ol’ thing season after season. On the contrary, such positive media attention is given to an innovative and vibrant organization that cherishes its rich history of nearly 60 years of continuous operation as the benchmark in the industry. At the same time, we have also cultivated a self-reflective element that lends itself to looking to the future to build an even better experience for our members and guests. Great credit goes to the Alpine staff, both on and off the hill, successive Alpine boards, and our members for creating this culture of excellence. The Alpine marketing and editorial team have put a lot of thought into promoting the Club over the last few years, and we feel one of the best places to characterize the “Alpine Ski Club lifestyle” is in our annual Skidoodle magazine. Skidoodle was little more than a mimeographed newsletter when the club began, but has now evolved into one of the centrepieces of Alpine’s communications materials. We have decided to embrace the lifestyle elements of the publication even further in this issue, knowing that Skidoodle is enjoyed not only by our members, but our guests, green-season visitors, and winter weekday clientele as well. With this in mind, we have rebalanced the content to include social, sporting and regional material to better reflect our members, their interests, and the richness of the community. In addition, our new layout is designed to make the reading experience as enjoyable as possible. Our goal is threefold: 1) keep the membership informed about the important initiatives at the Club; 2) share the Alpine lifestyle; and 3) unlock the secrets of the region. With Skidoodle’s new design, I believe these have been achieved. We have not stood still. Like Alpine Ski Club, Skidoodle magazine will remain in motion for the foreseeable future.
Matthew Cody Director Marketing & Communications SKIDOODLE 2019 4
Round Table PRESIDENT | Steven Koster
Hello Alpine members and welcome to another exciting winter season! It was great to see so many of you at the Corn Roast in an atmosphere that felt like a family reunion. It’s my privilege to be your president for the next two years and to lead a talented and committed board. I thank now-retired directors Grant McEwen (past president) and Jon Dyck (secretary) for their valued contributions, and welcome those of new directors Stephen Kahn (treasurer) and Kathleen Flynn (secretary). We are fortunate to have a wealth of talented members that have proven willing to share their expertise for the benefit of the Club. In clubhouse season one we learned how the clubhouse would best operate, and in season two we put those learnings to work. In your first visits this season you may observe some incremental changes around the Club undertaken to make it as friendly to use as the people who make up our membership. Your feedback is inevitably the motivation for tackling some of these projects, as are the learnings from our green-season guests of which we have a growing number. Please keep the information coming. As we enter the third year in our stunning new clubhouse it is time to shift attention to our on-hill infrastructure, which means choosing our next project. Over time a number of worthy projects have made the consideration list, and after presentations at last spring’s town hall and the recent annual general meeting we’re closing in on putting the question to the membership. We all want to maintain our enviable experience, and that could mean investing in essentials (e.g., snowmaking), functional enhancements (e.g., lift improvements), or new features (e.g., summer facilities). I urge all members to remember our reason for being here as we consider what we undertake next. It would be hard to miss the flattering industry talk about Alpine [editor’s note: see Tip of the Toque]. If your friends are curious about what it’s like to be at an award-winning club, why not let them find out? It turns out that your guests are more likely to sign on than any other source of visitor, and we invite their membership interest. I personally rather enjoy the impressed reaction of my guests when they find out where I disappear to on weekends and holidays. As we prepare to embark on another winter season I am taking this opportunity to thank Bill Williams, all the Alpine staff and Men with Knives for their hard work and dedication to Alpine. They will, as always, do all they can to ensure that this will be another great season.
MEMBER EXPERIENCE | Dave Grant
As the weather starts to cool we begin to anticipate an active and fun-filled ski season. We are entering our third season in the new clubhouse and it has had a profound impact on member engagement. It is so nice to see the number of people enjoying the club at Saturday après-ski—the atmosphere is wonderful. The member engagement committee continues to focus on providing a positive off-hill experience for all constituents of the membership. To that end, we are ramping up programming for the “tween” segment this year, so look for some new activities Saturdays at après time. Highlights of the social calendar for the upcoming season include a New Year’s Eve party with Arden and the Tourists, a KISS dance in February, and fireworks on Family Day Sunday. As well, Men’s and Ladies’ Days are now events that sell out so be sure to get your tickets when they become available. It is sure to be a fantastic season this year both on and off the hill and I look forward to seeing everyone at one of our many events!
INFRASTRUCTURE & LONG-RANGE PLANNING Jackie Berg & Philip Taylor
Whether you’re a competitive athlete or a weekend snow warrior, every Alpine member has in common the expectation of a first-class private-club experience. Alpine’s clubhouse, the largest infrastructure project in our history, continues to delight our members and has set a new standard for the off-hill experience. So what is next for the Alpine onhill experience? More snowmaking? With weather patterns becoming increasingly unpredictable, increased automation and the purchase of additional snowmaking guns and towers would enable Alpine to open ski terrain earlier in the season and recover quicker from thaws. A high-speed lift on the north? Replacing the Millennium fixed-grip quad with a high-speed detachable quad on the north would shorten both the wait and lift time and improve the on-hill experience. As the board evolves plans for both short-term and long-term capital improvements, we will look to you, our members, to provide input into what’s next. We encourage you to participate in the upcoming Alpine survey and make your voice heard! SKIDOODLE 2019 5
Dave Grant
Jackie Berg
MEMBERSHIP MARKETING | Jacquie Chapman
Alpine has had tremendous success with our introductory member program in the last few years (see Membership). That momentum is due in large part to you—our members— bringing your friends and family to the club as guests, then as introductory members, and finally joining Alpine to make it a part of their family tradition. It contributes to Alpine’s vibrancy both on the hill and off, allowing us to continue to grow our membership in a sustainable way. This year we’ve created simple guides for member hosts and their guests outlining how to access all the support Alpine offers. From equipment rentals, to booking lessons, to lift tickets, to taking part in the après-ski events—we’ve laid it all out in accessible and easy-to-navigate online and printed guides. Even more exciting is the new role we’ve created at Alpine to welcome and support our member guests and new introductory members. An Alpine host will be available to help make visiting Alpine an experience to remember! Call or visit the clubhouse to take advantage of this great new resource. So bring your friends and family; welcome them to Alpine and take advantage of our new support to make this experience seamless! Share the Alpine Vibe!!!
MEMBERSHIP | Don French
Skiing at Alpine is like taking a mini ski vacation every weekend with your family. Where else can you be active from December to April enjoying the fresh air, snow, and great views, and spending a quantity of quality time with your family and friends? Our introductory membership (IM) program is booming. More and more people are hearing about all the exciting things happening here, and their interest is piqued. We now have over 70 families in our IM program; that’s near a historical high. When we talk with new and existing IMs they tell us how great Alpine is. They are of course thrilled with the clubhouse, but they also mention our multi-faceted terrain, short lift lines, and great snow. One comment by IMs is how friendly and outgoing SKIDOODLE 2019 6
Jacquie Chapman
Philip Taylor
Don French
Nick Tadross
our members and staff are, and how quickly they feel part of the “Alpine family.” Our energy is increasingly directed toward helping our IMs make the transition to full-voting membership. This is the key to generating the lift in the active badge count that will achieve our goal of optimal sustainability relative to the capacity of the club (indoors and out). At that point our focus will turn to maintaining equilibrium, or accepting new members only to balance against natural attrition. Until then we’re keeping our eye on the ball. Alpine is a club people want to be part of—one that was voted the top ski club in Ontario and one of the best in the world in 2018.
PROGRAMS | Nick Tadross
It’s official: the Nor-Am Cup is returning to Collingwood after a ten-year sabbatical. What’s so exciting about this? This event will be the first of its kind. Collingwood will host the women’s events and Quebec the men’s, January 2-7. This series will also be the first Nor-Am ever to host a parallel slalom: a new addition to the World Cup FIS circuit, an exciting spectator sport with some of the world’s best competing head-to-head, and at our Club on Friday January 4! The head-to-head excitement is not exclusive to ski racing. The weekend of February 9/10 we are hosting a Snowboard Canada, FIS men’s and women’s parallel slalom. We should be proud of being considered a top venue to host such prestigious events. The regular season schedule will host our normal fill of ski and snowboarding events and of course our ever-popular Rail Jam on Family Day weekend. New for the 2019 season we have added an adult social to the calendar, but not just any après ski…on December 29 we are having a race-themed après where we hope to engage new and returning adults for our Fun and Glory or Masters’ League race programs.The Calcutta Auction (January 5) may be intimidating, maybe more than racing…but a little bit of camaraderie and education can go a long way to prompting everyone to enjoy a little friendly competition. Hope to see you there!
New Directors
Kathleen Flynn
Stephen Kahn
Kathleen is our new Governance Director. Kathleen joined Alpine in 2005 with her husband Martin Abel and their two daughters Carolyn (now 23) and Kristen (now 19). Kathleen and Martin describe their decision to join Alpine as a “commitment to family life” and have thoroughly enjoyed the winter lifestyle at Alpine. Over the years their two girls participated in the ski race programs and then coached and taught younger skiers. Kathleen has participated throughout the years in adult ski programs herself and continues as a loyal member of the Sunday morning ladies’ group, while Martin is also committed to the slopes each weekend and has graduated to some part-time instructing. Kathleen and Martin continue to look forward to the every-winter-weekend life at Alpine and are delighted to see how many of their peers are actively enjoying life at Alpine after their kids have grown up.
Stephen brings to the role over 25 years of experience in the financial industry from running multi-billion-dollar funds to his current position as CEO of his own investment management firm for high-net-worth individuals. Stephen has a long history of community involvement on various boards and committees including three years on the Alpine finance committee. As a bonus, he brings a background in the IT industry. Stephen’s expertise in money management and his commitment to a financially secure and fun future at Alpine make him well qualified for the role.
After graduating from Queen’s University, Kathleen headed to Toronto to practice law, eventually made the move to in-house counsel and now has an interesting and varied corporate practice as general counsel and corporate secretary at Indigo. Kathleen has enjoyed her role providing legal, regulatory and corporate governance support to Indigo, its subsidiaries, its board of directors and the Indigo Love of Reading Foundation for almost 20 years. Kathleen is pleased to see how Alpine is thriving as a ski club and is excited to be a part of the Alpine board.
Stephen has been a committed member of Alpine for over 15 years. As part of a first-generation family he brings a fresh but devoted view to our traditions and a desire to help shape our future. Most cold-weather weekends he can be found skiing, snowboarding or hiking the back trails. In the shoulder season he is an avid mountain biker and hiker. Stephen and his wife Phyllis have two sons, Daniel and Michael, who began skiing at age three right here at Alpine. In the true mad Alpine tradition of loving skiing and winter, Michael enjoyed the last winter season working as a ski instructor at Panorama, BC. We would be remiss not to mention their golden retriever Bella who is an avid snowshoe trail dog. The family vacation motto is “we would rather ski than beach.”
SKIDOODLE 2019 7
Retired Directors
Grant McEwen, President
Jon Dyck,Secretary
Our time on the Board has come to an end and there are far too many people that we need to thank for supporting us during our tenures to fit in the space we’ve been given here. So rather than trying, we thought we would leave you with this list instead: You know you were (or should be) an Alpine board member IF:
14. any of your passwords include the word “Alpine” or the name of any of our runs 13. you know the wet-bulb temperature required to operate snowmaking equipment 12. you have accidentally tried to order a McAlpine at Starbucks or Tim Hortons (and been disappointed when they didn’t have it) 11. you know the cost for a family of four to ski at every club on the ridge 10. you have a view on whether a meeting should be “adjourned” or “ended” 9. you think Downdraft Ale is the best beer on the market or at least have the poster hanging in your chalet 8. you enjoy finding post-it notes on your locker at the end of the ski day 7. you immediately strike up a conversation with anyone wearing a white badge (even when not at the Club) 6. you get a warm feeling when you hear the words “all source deductions have been paid” 5. you like being around people passionate about Alpine and its future 4. in the middle of July you have ever thought “I wonder if Alpine will be open before the holidays?” 3. you know the difference between an intermediate member and an introductory member 2. you think Alpine has the best terrain, the best people and the best facilities! 1. you stress about missing a Skidoodle deadline!!
Although we said we wouldn’t do it, we thank Bill and his team for all the excellent work they do on a daily basis, our fellow directors for their friendship and passion, and of course Cathy and Sarah for, well, everything. See you on the slopes, Jon and Grant SKIDOODLE 2019 8
It was a big year for accolades at Alpine. Please join us in celebrating all these deserving award winners.
Mike Harris
Rookie Ski Pro of the Year SKIDOODLE 2019 9
2018/19 TIP OF THE TOQUE
Takuya “Tak” Watanabe Emma Kennedy
Quin Thielman Jarid Palter Emma Kennedy CSIA Award of Merit Each year the Canadian Ski Instructors’ Alliance (CSIA) recognizes one ski pro from each resort who has shown dedication to their ski school by providing a great learning experience during each lesson, led by example, volunteered their time to organize ski school events, and encouraged and/or trained their peers to improve as skiers and instructors. In May 2018, that award was presented to Emma Kennedy of Alpine Ski Club at the CSIA annual general meeting and banquet. Well done, Emma! Mike Harris Rookie Ski Pro of the Year And the answer is…a) Superman, b) Captain Canada, c) Mike Harris or d) all of the above. Mike Harris was a pro new to Alpine but not new to ski teaching. His enthusiasm, passion and engaging spirit were infectious. Yes he did dress up in all those costumes and encouraged his group of young skiers to do the same. Fun & learning went hand in hand and for this, Mike was voted Rookie of the Year. We are happy to report that Mike will be returning and the game is on! Bring on the fun. Takuya “Tak” Watanabe Coach of the Year While not new to coaching, 2018 was Tak’s first year at Alpine. Tak worked with Wayne Howard (now at the National SKIDOODLE 2019 10
Ski Academy) coaching the U16 O Cup athletes, where he proved to be both instantly popular and effective as a coach. Tak’s powerful and efficient ski technique make him a standout on the hill. Perhaps Tak enjoyed Alpine too…he’s back for another season! Parker Barach Rookie Coach of the Year The rookie coach of the year is selected via nominations from coaching peers and this past season’s was a nearunanimous choice in winner Parker Barach. In her first season of coaching she exercised mature judgment and leadership, and demonstrated passion for supporting and celebrating the athletes on her U8 team. Jarid Palter Snowboard Pro of the Year Ethan Ghan Snowboard Rookie Pro of the Year Quin Thielman Snowboard Coach of the Year Within our snowboard programs we recognize both a coach and a pro for their outstanding contributions to the program. Last season we proudly honoured Jarid Palter, a third generation member whose family’s passion for the Club appears to remain contagious. Jarid was the unanimous choice. Jarid is both a ski and snowboard pro and happily teaches both which makes him an asset within our Mixed Boards program.
2018/19 TIP OF THE TOQUE
Parker Barach
Ethan Ghan Quin Thielman was our snowboard coach of the year. Quin has been a passionate and competitive rider here at the Club and progressed by taking those traits to his role as a coach. He is dedicated to both his athletes and the sport. Our snowboard Rookie of the Year was Ethan Ghan. Ethan was new to teaching and quickly developed a great rapport with students, always showed up smiling, and was keen to help out when asked and whenever needed. All three recipients are strong ambassadors for snow sports and Alpine.
Roni Remme Senior Athlete of the Year At the Alpine Ontario awards in April, Roni Remme “of Alpine Ski Club/NSA and now CAST” was awarded Senior Athlete of the Year. According to AOA, “Roni was crowned with the overall NorAm title and of course put on a show at her first Olympics!!” Men with Knives Best Caterer Not to be outdone, Men with Knives Catering was voted Best Caterer, earning the Reader’s Choice Award in this category. This is no small feat since the voting territory incorporated Collingwood, the Blue Mountains, Clearview, and Wasaga Beach. We already knew how great they are—it seems the rest of the community is figuring it out too.
Alpine Ski Club Club of the Year
At the 2018 Ontario Ski Racing Awards ceremony in April, Alpine Ski Club was honoured as Club of the Year. AOA reports, “The Club demonstrated a strong but friendly rivalry in the Rossiter Raffle – Coach Excellence Program with intent to triumph and receive funding to better their club’s coaches. The club welcomed all members, partnered clubs and PSO to their club throughout the season displaying genuine hospitality.”
World’s Top 9 Private Resorts
Just prior to the 2017/18 season CNN Travel released its list of the world’s best exclusive ski resorts. Nine resorts made the list, including Alpine, incidentally the only Canadian resort to make the cut. Search “CNN best private ski resorts” online to see the full list.
Making the grade online
They don’t need to be awards to be recognition. As the temperatures began to rise, Flight Network named Alpine in their online blog as one of the five top Canadian resorts to visit for spring skiing, and The Telegraph (UK) listed Alpine as one of “three more exclusive resorts” behind Cimarron Mountain Club, a private Colorado resort with initiation fees of USD 2.285MM and annual fees starting at USD 55K. Not bad, Alpine! SKIDOODLE 2019 11
by Kim Roberts
“There are only two options regarding commitment. You’re either IN or you’re OUT. There is no such thing as life in-between.” – Pat Riley, president, Miami Heat
Truer words have never been spoken, and you can see it in action in our new crop of up-and-coming athletes. Not new to our list are Ryley Kilmer-Choi and Andrew Hildebrand. Both snowboard racers have progressed to being named to the Canada Snowboard Alpine NextGeneration Program. Andrew Hildebrand’s best performances were at the 2017 Universiade in Kazakhstan with an 8th place qualifying time, as well as a silver and a bronze at Nor-Am races in 2018. While competing in snowboarding, Andrew has been working hard at completing his degree from the University of Western Ontario in a Business Management Organizational Studies honours program, specializing in finance. Now that Andrew has graduated, he will be able to fully focus on pursuing his true passion, which is and always has been snowboarding. Ryley Kilmer-Choi’s passion for snowboarding has led him to impressive performances in the Junior World Championships with two 8th place finishes, one in PGS at the 2015 Junior World Championships in Rogla, Slovenia and another in the 2017 Junior World Championships in Klinovec, The Czech Republic. Other notable highlights consist of three SKIDOODLE 2019 12
4th place finishes on the Nor-Am tour—in PSL in Steamboat Springs, PGS in Holiday Valley, and PSL at Copper Mountain in USASA Nationals. Ryley competed this September at the FIS Junior World Championships in New Zealand where he was 12th in both PGS and PSL. Athletic endeavours aside, Riley is working towards a Bachelor’s degree in software engineering as a second year student at Concordia University. Ski Racing in Canada is very competitive and we are proud to update you on Emma Williamson’s accomplishments. Emma is 17, racing U18, and has been named to the Ontario Team. Emma attends Hillfield Strathallan College in Hamilton where she is in grade 12 after a grade 11 average of 95%. Her goal is to qualify for the National Team in three years. Racing at this level requires a serious commitment to both preparation and race days. This season the Ontario Team will put in over 50 training days focusing on skill development for technical and speed training. Their primary performance objectives are success at the Nor-Am level and qualification for the World Junior Championships. This will also involve developing competitive skills, building confidence, and improving rankings at regional FIS races in Canada and the US, and possibly Europe.
2018/19 RISING STARS
RISING STARS—THE SEQUEL
Ben Williamson (Emma’s twin brother) will be racing FIS on the Southern Ontario Ski Team. He also attends Hillfield Strathallan College and is currently in grade 12 (his grade 11 average was 96.67%). In 2018 he qualified for the Provincials and was 5th in the super-G, and therefore qualified for the Can-Ams. This season he wants to improve his national ranking and in three years his goal is a seat on the Canadian Team. At the grassroots level, let’s begin with Sydney Basil.
Both Roni Remme and Derek Livingston continue to excel in their athletic pursuits. Roni Remme, as a member of Alpine Canada’s national team, competed in her first Olympics last winter. Her current team bio reads: “Roni has completed two years of post-secondary NCAA education. In 2015 Roni competed at the FIS Junior World Ski Championships where she finished 10th in slalom. She showed her dominance in the technical disciplines on the FIS circuit with two first-place finishes in giant slalom. In the 2016-17 season, Roni found the podium on the Nor-Am Cup circuit finishing third in super-G. She took a break from school in the 2017-18 season to focus on World Cup racing full-time where she impressed her competitors and supporters. She had her first World Cup starts in downhill, super-G and slalom. Excelling in slalom, she picked up 11th- and 26th-place World Cup results. She also attended her first Olympic Games where she showed promise in speed and technical disciplines.” Derek Livingston continues his career with the national half-pipe team. Last season Derek had the strong finishes of 7th in the U.S. Open and 17th at the Olympics in Pyeong Chang. He will continue to compete internationally for 2018-19 and says, “Alpine Ski Club has been my most long-standing supporter in my endeavours to represent my country on the world stage. I can’t thank you all enough for the support, as I don’t think I would be where I am today without it. I am excited for the season to start and I can’t wait to show the world what we Canadians can do.”
Sydney is 15 and in grade 10 at Bishop Strachan. She finished grade 9 with a 90% average despite missing over 250 classes! Sydney is going into year two of U16. As a U14 athlete she held the leader’s bib all season long, was the overall OCUP champion, and was also the Alpine Ontario athlete of the year for 2017. Sydney had so many great results last season it is hard to summarize them, but for starters she earned four top-ten finishes during the season, and participated in the Ontario Championships where she was 3rd in the super-G. Her long-term goals include qualifying for the SOD team, followed by the Ontario Team. On the snowboarding front we are pleased to update you on the “Forest Hill twins-considered a double threat on slopes,” Jacob and Adam Farber. Adam was 4th at the Canadian Junior FIS Nationals, Gold at the Ontario Winter Games, and qualified for the Canadian FIS Nationals. Jacob was selected for the junior provincial team where he won a silver medal at the Provincials. He has competed at USASA Nationals, Canadian Nationals, and the Ontario Winter Games. This year we are optimistically watching our freeski athletes as their journeys ramp up in competitiveness. In conjunction with Beaver Valley, Craigleith, Georgian Peaks and Devil’s Glen we formed a new Escarpment Team. Their season will start with a camp in Breckenridge. Watch for updates throughout the season. As the pre-season programs are ramping up we are proud to report that we have 52 young ski racers heading to Sun Peaks in December to get their ski legs back in race-ready form. The club will be sending 12 snowboard racers to Sun Peaks to kick off not only their preseason training, but also the start of their competitive season. Success, by definition, is the favourable or prosperous termination of attempts or endeavours; the accomplishment of one’s goals. These athletes could not have reached their goals whether at the entry or elite level without the support and expertise of strong coaches. (And great parents!) Alpine Ski Club is proud of the coaching team we have developed. They encourage, train and support our athletes, whether competing (at all levels) in ski racing, snowboard racing, freestyle snowboarding, boarder cross, skier cross or freeski. The relationship between coach and athlete can be the difference between success and failure. Good luck to all our rising stars, and remember there is no “i” in the word team! Keep up the great efforts team Alpine and remember... “Gold medals aren’t really made of gold. They’re made of sweat, determination, and a hard-to-find alloy called guts.” – Dan Gable, American Wrestler and Olympic Champion SKIDOODLE 2019 13
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Offer is valid for the 2018/19 winter season (December 7, 2018 – April 14, 2019). Conditions apply to all programs & packages. Rates subject to change and cancellation without notice. SKIDOODLE 2019 14
SOCIALITE The Club is busy the year round, with members in the winter, and events through the green season. What’s clear from these photographs: it’s easy to smile at Alpine Ski Club!
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01. Meg Wilson receiving a Ladies’ Day delivery from her son, David, of 60 roses for 60 years at Alpine! 02. Natali pouring an Arrowhead Ale at the Fireside Bar 03. Rick & Karen Pettit at Past Presidents’ Dinner 03 SKIDOODLE 2019 15
2018/19 SOCIALITE
photo: Assaf Friedman
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04. “I now pronounce you husband and wife!” Newlyweds Dustin & Emma 05. Mr. & Mrs. Tyler King 06. Easter Egg Hunt 07. Guests enjoying a summer evening on the terrace 05
photo: Rob Whelan
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photo: Rob Whelan
07
vernon, bc
canada
BE PART OF THE
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A PLACE LIKE NO OTHER Up here, the snow is natural and abundant, and the terrain is vast and varied. It’s the perfect playground for those who love winter sports, or those who just love winter. It’s the kind of place that gives you that nostalgic feeling, where everything is just as you’d imagine.
SKIDOODLE 2019 17
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2018/19 FROM THE KITCHEN
As Alpine gains momentum and accolades in the skiing and local communities for both our new clubhouse and athlete programs, so too does our food and beverage partner. In 2018, Men with Knives Catering was awarded the Reader’s Choice Award for favourite catering company in the Georgian Triangle. Together we are building a strong reputation for great event experiences. Men with Knives Catering (MWK) brings us not only Club cuisine during the winter but also works with us year-round on private, corporate and community events. In addition to weddings, banquets and business meetings, Alpine hosted five up-market galas this past year that came to us looking for both a memorable location and delicious food: the Georgian Triangle Humane Society Furball, the Big Brothers Big Sisters Blue Moon Gala, Hospice Georgian Triangle’s Annual Care Gala, the Trillium Hunter Jumper Association Gala, and Home Horizon’s Spirit of Collingwood tour. In addition to the clubhouse events, MWK also offers offsite catering to private, corporate and not-for-profit clients. An essential part of their culture is their commitment to the community and local fundraising initiatives. Beyond donating auction items and dinner packages to several events, they participate with other local chefs and restaurants in many of our region’s top food showcases, most recently the Christmas Day Feast, Rotary Collingwood’s Taste of the Town, Beaver Valley Ciderfest, Thornbury Longtable Harvest Dinner, Collingwood Canada Day Longtable Dinner, the Small Halls Festival (Taste of the Township) and the Creemore Copper Kettle Festival.
Who’s cookin’?
Staff is integral to delivering a good product and it is a challenge with the seasonal nature of our region to service the kitchens of the private ski clubs, golf clubs, local restaurants and Blue Mountain. Julie and Gareth (owners of MWK) know that they are only as good as their team, of which there are two key year-round players: Kevin Thompson (Manager of Food Services)—Kevin has been with MWK for almost a decade. He oversees the daily kitchen operations and execution of catering menus both on and offsite. Kevin has been the general manager of several franchises including Casey’s, Boston Pizza and East Side Marios and has run food services for one of Compass Group’s corporate locations working with clients such as
Bombardier, Bell Mobility and Bayer Pharmaceuticals. The combined public and corporate catering experience means Kevin can deliver delicious menus at affordable prices to large numbers. He is dedicated to ensuring breakfast is rolling at 7 a.m. and that wedding clients get their perfectlycooked meal. Working alongside Kevin throughout the year is chef Adam Kwiakowski. Adam is entering his third year with MWK, and brings his sharp knife and passion to the back kitchen to make sure the line is stocked and our corporate and Club events are well executed. Along with many others at the Club these two can often be found working seven days a week and fourteen hours a day to make sure that food is on the table.
What’s cookin’?
The philosophy behind Men with Knives’ food is global inspiration, localized. With a well-travelled membership and clientele to satisfy, Gareth and the team at MWK know it’s important to keep on top of food trends and to continuously integrate new flavours for the food line, and après-ski menu and special events menus while at the same time respecting Club favourites. Menu development begins with Gareth and the “test kitchen” researching menus and changes in the industry while experimenting with new flavours, cuts of meat and food combinations. This year’s inspiration sees influences from the Middle East and South America along with techniques such as pickling and sous vide. From the test phase, the Alpine kitchen team led by Kevin looks to scale this up for production for our food line or special events. There is more to their menus than what is served on the line and we encourage our members to find out more about booking group dinners at the Club, arranging private catering options as well as creating magical menus at weddings and special events during the off-season. SKIDOODLE 2019 19
2018/19 FROM THE KITCHEN
Maple Miso Rainbow Trout and Sorrel
A perfect showcase of this philosophy is these MWK recipes using local product with unique flavours and ingredients. Both versions of the rainbow trout pair perfectly with the garlic kale and harissa carrots. As Chef Kevin says, sometimes you feel like a nut, sometimes you don’t…
Maple Miso Rainbow Trout and Sorrel (serves 4)
Pistachio-Crusted Rainbow Trout with Preserved Lemon (serves 4)
2 - 8 ounce rainbow trout fillets 1/3 cup maple syrup 1/3 cup brown sugar 1 tablespoon miso paste 1 package fresh sorrel leaves
2 - 8 ounce rainbow trout fillets 4 oz. shelled pistachio nuts 2 oz. butter 1 oz. preserved lemon
• Preheat oven to 350 degrees. • Combine maple syrup, miso, and brown sugar in a blender and pulse until well mixed. • Place trout on a parchment-lined baking pan, brush with miso/maple mixture. • Bake for approximately 10 minutes or until the trout is firm to the touch. • Remove from oven and top with freshly cut sorrel leaves. • Serve hot.
• Preheat oven to 350 degrees. • Coarsely grind or crush pistachios. A coffee grinder works very well. • Melt butter. • Place trout on a parchment-lined baking pan, brush with butter, and top with ground pistachios. • Bake for approximately 10 minutes or until the trout is firm to the touch. • Remove from oven and top with thinly-sliced preserved lemon rind. • Serve hot.
Add your sides: Garlic Kale (serves 4)
Crushed Harissa Carrots (serves 4)
1 head green kale 2 cloves fresh garlic 2 oz. butter 1 roma tomato 4 fl. oz. apple cider
12 ounces carrots 3 oz. butter 1 oz. harissa paste
• Pull kale from stems and rip into small pieces. • Melt butter in a medium frypan; add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. • Add kale and toss in pan to coat kale. • Add apple cider and tomato. • Toss again to coat kale. • Sauté for approximately 5 minutes or until kale is wilted and soft. • Remove from pan with tongs and allow excess juices to drain. • Serve. SKIDOODLE 2019 20
• Peel and cut carrots into 1/4 inch pieces. • Steam or boil carrots until just cooked. • Melt butter in medium frypan and add harissa paste. • Toss cooked carrots in butter and harissa. • Gently crush carrots with potato masher or fork. • Serve hot.
2018/19 PERFORMANCE
How to use ruts to improve your results One of my first experiences with Alpine’s young competitive ski athletes was a kayak trip on the Beaver River during the summer camp. It gave me the idea for this performance tip. While watching the flow of the river I observed that the fastest moving water was always on the outside of each bend. The same principle applies in ski racing, and you can use it to your benefit, especially when starting later and having to ski in ruts, as follows:
Rob Crossan carved the path for Canada’s technical skiers. He spent nine years on the national team placing eighth in the Park City World Cup slalom climbing to a 1993/4 world slalom ranking of 26. Rob is a two-time Olympian and Level 4 high-performance coach. Rob is Alpine’s new U16 coach.
• place your outside ski on the bank of the rut to maintain the speed you have; • time your move towards the next gate at the end of the rut to gain speed.
I used this technique to be one of the fastest elite racers on the flats. Other ways to think of this is go with the flow or, as Bruce Lee said, “be like water.” Try this in racing for your “attack from the back!” SKIDOODLE 2019 21
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2018/19 PERFORMANCE
Alpine has always evolved its programs to accommodate the needs of the members, freeski included. Our freeski program began several years ago in step with the market, introducing (mostly our) youngsters to the basics through the development program, progressing to the interclub level for the more advanced. And that’s where it ended. Until now.
The growth of the freeski program and the level of progress demonstrated by our athletes warranted more. Introducing more, a.k.a., the Ontario Escarpment Freeski Team (OEFT). The OEFT is a provincial-level team comprising athletes from Alpine, Craigleith, Beaver Valley, Georgian Peaks, and Devil’s Glen. With elite coaching, the OEFT continues the pathway for those athletes who aspire to higher performance leading to international competition, including the Olympics. Similar to the Ontario Escarpment Snowboard Team, the combination of clubs offers the athletes access to the best training environments available. As athletes at the highest levels of any of our sliding sports know, the further you go, the more you travel—for training, for competitions, even for coaching. With the OEFT, competitions will still involve travel, but the training and coaching happens locally. SKIDOODLE 2019 23
2018/19 PERFORMANCE
As to coaching, enter Shondra Charbonneau (pictured above,right). Shondra grew up in the Ottawa area where she started skiing at the age of 2. Shondra raced for a few years, then found herself spending more time in the park. At 15 she entered her first rail jam in Quebec where she found her true passion…freeskiing. After high school Shondra joined the Ontario park & pipe team. This involved travel to competitions around the world and world cup events. As a natural progression, Shondra found herself interested in coaching. Through her new passion—giving back to the sport—she has now spent three years coaching athletes. Shondra is CSFA super-coach qualified, meaning she is certified to teach inverted manoeuvres. She numbers in her achievements second place at the Aspen Open, third place at the Mammoth Grand Prix, and third place at Rails 2 Riches. She also competed at World Championships in Austria. If you’ve never heard of a Flat 5 Japan, ask her! Shondra with Scott McTaggart (Beaver Valley) will be the front-line coaches for the team. Ryan Markham will support their efforts through mental training and clinics using his international experience.
Ryan Markham (pictured above, left) is Alpine’s top freeski coach and former X-Games competitor. SKIDOODLE 2019 24
The park is also progressing. Last year our “Olympic Park” was adjusted to help with speed management between features. The feedback from last year is being used to adapt this year’s park, including further terrain modification and a series of new features that will broaden the ability spectrum and improve creativity. And because our freeski program spans grass-roots to international competitions, the junior hits still figure in the plans. It’s a good time to be a high-performance freeskier at Alpine!
2018/19 PERFORMANCE
The terrain park can be a fantastic place to progress and enjoy amazing times with your friends and family, and there are features for everyone. Regardless of whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to freestyle, getting back in the terrain park at the beginning of the season can be intimidating.
Before setting out you’ll need your terrain park pass; the quiz is on the Alpine website and the confirmation is delivered to your e-mailbox. The quiz reminds you of the park rules and etiquette that are important for safety, and safety must always be your top priority. Once you’ve completed the quiz, take your confirmation to the Programs & Events office to pick up your sticker. Even if you’re just in the park to watch all the crazy kids’ twists and spins improve each year, everyone needs a park pass. Once you have your pass, make sure you have your feet back under you before entering the park. You should feel no rush to push yourself beyond your limits. Stay within your comfort zone, and progressively restore your confidence in your abilities. Start off small and build your way up. All features are marked with their corresponding size, which in turn correlates with ability levels. Any feature marked with an S (for small) is a great starting point. I recommend starting off going over the always-fun rollers or one of those big boxes that kids call the “dance floor” or “butter box.” If you don’t know your left from your right in the terrain park you’re encouraged to ask a coach/pro for a tip. If you’re about to take your first step into the world of freestyle and hit a box, make sure you keep your board flat, focus on balance, and stay committed to riding all the way to the end. The terrain park can be an intimidating place but it shouldn’t be! Even if you’ve never been the daredevil type, I still encourage anyone to take a peek and try out a feature. The park is progressive and accommodates all abilities. You never know, you may enjoy it.
Quinlin Thielman (shown above) is both CASI & Park certified. He’s also Alpine’s snowboard coach of the year.
Spectators are more than welcome! Just remember that you still need a park pass and must abide by all rules. Stand away from the “knuckles,” takeoffs or landings of all features, or any blind location. If you’re not hitting any features then proceed safely down the side of the park, making sure you are aware of your surroundings. If you are, always call your drop-ins and clear the landing area as quickly and safely as possible. I hope that everyone has a long and full season. Stay safe, have fun, and shred the gnar baby! SKIDOODLE 2019 25
2018/19 MEMBERS’ STORIES
The Williamsons are a first-generation Alpine family. Duff & Kerina along with 10-year-old twins Ben & Emma joined Alpine as IMs in 2011. Since becoming members, they have enjoyed all aspects of the Club and have been actively involved in race programs. Ben & Emma began racing in U12 and are now representing Alpine Ski Club at the FIS level on the Southern Ontario and Ontario teams. “What is your favourite Alpine memory?” is an impossible question to answer.
challenges, talking about the near future, the very distant future and also the hilarious.
To distill every weekend, March Break, ski race, après, social, Family Day and sunny spring day down to just one favourite memory is impossible. Wonderfully impossible.
“If you could have anyone to Thanksgiving dinner who would it be?” (Apparently, we’re having David Suzuki, William Shatner, Barack Obama and oh…Lady Gaga.)
Every moment spent at Alpine adds another favourite memory. What a special place we all have the privilege to share. Alpine is a place where multiple generations gather and become friends, drawn together by downhill sports and a Club that we all feel so passionately about. I can’t think of another sport where families & friends spend half the day participating together and the other half sitting side by side.
“What do you want to be when you grow up?” (We discovered that had a very determined 10-year-old future dolphin trainer.)
Perhaps surprising, but it is sitting as a family on the Summit Chair, sometimes serious and sometimes in fits of laughter, where many of our most special memories reside. Looking for porcupines in the trees, planning our next run, chatting about next week, chatting about last week, sharing our successes and sharing ideas on how to overcome SKIDOODLE 2019 26
And now, “Which universities are you thinking about?” (This one requires a few more chairlift rides.) It is on the Summit Chair where there are no distractions, no “to-do’s,” that families have a chance to reconnect and catch up in everyone’s happy place. Our favourite Alpine memory is a cumulation of all the hundreds of 4-minute-7-second chairlift rides. Whether it be in the middle of February or at the Corn Roast in September, the Summit Chair will always be a very special place for our family.
2018/19 MEMBERS’ STORIES
Peter Kofman writes: My father, Jules, essentially a non-skier, joined our family to Alpine in 1964. I recount the timeline of how this singular decision by my dad was the critical milestone that began our fourgeneration Alpine legacy. It is somewhere in the ‘60-’70s and with natural snow, t-bars, and trees in the middle of some rather pitchy runs, Alpine was not in the “pristine” state that many have come to know. My earliest experiences and memories at the Club are of racing as a young kid, skiing the “Falcon,” finding big air off a real ski jump, “The Kent,” and flying through a culvert tunnel (no other ski club had one of those!). Meals entailed spending time in the Bunker and eating lunch in an overcrowded basement on “Jessie’s” freezer (because seating was very limited). The extent of friendships and family connections was extra special and many remain my closest friends and associates to this day. It is the ‘70s and my girlfriend (now wife), Lori, shows up and learns how to ski. 38 years on she is more than a critical part of the Alpine family—she’s part of the Alpine fabric.
It is the ‘90s and 2000s and my kids Mikaela-Fudge and Jordie are ski racing. The community becomes paramount and the Club becomes increasingly relevant. We make even more connections through our kids; our kids’ friends’ parents in turn become our friends. I’m honoured with a position on the board as the race director, with a side of designing and helping build the North Warming Hut. These are fun and intense times. We learn a lot, and we are basically living and breathing ski racing. We are all in! It’s somewhere in the 2000s and the club is changing rapidly; we now have more designer snow and a high-speed lift. The “Falcon” (which was located between the old brown t-bar and Challenge) is long gone and the spirit of the Club is changing, growing and maturing.
g
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Go for great taste!
g It’s 2014 and Jordie proposes to Courtney on “Lover’s Lane.” Talk about commitment to Alpine!
So it’s now 2018, we have a new, new clubhouse, new members, and fond “older” memories. The Club may have experienced renewal but it is grounded in a deep history that will shape the next 60 years and beyond. A vivid memory is the black-tie opening of what most members will remember as the old “new” chalet. That night was really special and exciting and it is a memory that resonates with many because it was a moment when Alpine’s future was cemented. Liken it to the feeling of completing the very “new clubhouse” that represents the core of the Alpine family…this is where my kids and their kids will set up roots for the future generations.
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History proves that we grow into the future based upon the experiences of what has shaped us in the past. The arrival of our fourth-generation Harper to Jordie and Courtney in 2017 confirms our family’s commitment anew. Her experiences will undoubtedly be different from ours, but they will be at Alpine. Similar to Fudge, Jordie and Courtney, all newly-signed-up members under the “Nextgen” program, Harper will share in the Alpine adventure. I have no idea what each of them will find most important as they grow within the Club but Lori and I are committed to continue to grow the family legacy with the ever-changing backdrop that is Alpine. Somewhere along the way we will find many special memories that only a community like Alpine’s can supply.
noti cations about our famous Double Dollars Marketplace where you can purchase gift certi cates for ½ price at 10am sharp every Wednesday!
Photo: Lamb Chops, Tesoro Restaurant SKIDOODLE 2019 28
Baby Harper makes the family four-generations at Alpine. Here she is at her first aprés ski
2018/19 MEMBERS’ STORIES
Andrea writes: We are the Howdens. We joined Alpine March 13, 2016, at the end of our first IM year. The plan was to do two IM years and then weigh our options. Well plans changed! It wasn’t a hard decision. We instantly fell in love with Alpine (and Ulla!) and decided to make the investment in our family. If you ask our boys what they love most about Alpine they’re likely to say their friends, the freedom they have, the ability to buy things with their magic blue badges and the poutine. Freedom is a big deal for our country boys since there isn’t a lot for them to walk or bike to in our neck of the woods. Now on winter weekends we see them for first chair in the morning, a few minutes at lunch and then at the end of the day when they perform “can I get poutine” charade style outside the Heritage lounge doors. For Rick and I there are too many things to list. We own an excavation company which can be stressful and exhausting at times. We also work together which can be stressful and exhausting all the time. Alpine is our happy place. We don’t usually talk shop until we’re back in the office Monday morning. I think my favourite thing about Alpine weekends is seeing the stress vanish from Rick’s face the minute we park the truck Friday night. We’ve made incredible friends, most of which we now consider family. When I took a tumble last season I received so many texts from friends offering to take the boys for dinner or even overnight. A few texts came while I was still strapped to the toboggan! Definitely felt the love. It’s impossible to choose just one favourite day or memory at Alpine, there are too many! Our first chairlift ride September 26 2015, skiing on mud our first New Year’s, watching the boys learn to race, tea breaks, chair lift chats, lunches with friends, drinks on the deck, pocket chocolate, G&T, Stiegl, singing and dancing in the locker room, reminding Rick to put his ski pants on before his boots, demo days, Men’s Day, Ladies’ Day, Corn Roasts, bumping into classmates (Go Saints!), hugging friends at the start and end of each season…the list could go on forever! Our family motto is “Choose happy and embrace the weird.” At times we have to remind ourselves to choose to be happy. We are so lucky to be living these lives but there’s a lot of weird out there so instead of judging it as a family we try to understand and embrace it. We’ve never had to choose to be happy at Alpine because Alpine is HAPPY! We leave the “weird” in the parking lot and keep the “happy” on the hill. We chose Alpine! SKIDOODLE 2019 29
2018/19 MEMBERS’ <!-- Generator: Adobe Illustrator 23.0.0, SVG Export Plug-In --> <svg version=”1.1” xmlns=”http://www.w3.org/2000/svg” xmlns:xlink=”http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink” x=”0px” y=”0px”
This lovely recollection was submitted by a thoughtful member who chose to remain anonymous. In 1985, our developing racing program had a very good group of Division II (ages 1415 years) racers. In keeping with the other Escarpment clubs, Alpine launched a Division II downhill race sanctioned by the SOD (Southern Ontario Division). So as to not interfere with the regular weekend training and race schedule, the race had to be held on a Thursday and Friday. The racers were not old enough to drive, so the parents joined their children at Alpine for the training and race. The parents were solicited to assist with the operations of the race with the understanding that their children would not be allowed to race if they refused to volunteer. We now had our race crew!! Fortunately, a few of the key members of the regular race crew were available to assist with the more technical procedures. The parents quickly learned their responsibilities, and they enjoyed their value-added contributions during race day. In the following nine years this pattern was repeated. All the adults had a great time, and got to know each other well. These parents have remained good friends over the years, and continue to recall “race crew” stories.
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While the names have been withheld upon request, they all know who they are as they read this story.
a n i W
#MyAlpineSkiClub $250 gift card! Photo Contest #MyAlpineSkiClub Photo Contest 3 easy steps: 1. Follow @alpineskiclub on Instagram 2. Share a photo and caption of your best Alpine memory on Instagram 3. Tag @alpineskiclub and hashtag #myalpineskiclub
3 easy steps:
*contest ends March 15, 2019.
1. Follow @alpineskiclub on Instagram *winner will be a selected via random draw. 2.*winner Share awill photo and caption of your best Alpine memory be contacted via Instagram account. *account on Instagram must be public to be seen. 3. Tag @alpineskiclub and hashtag #myalpineskiclub *contest ends March 15, 2019. *winner will be a selected via random draw. *winner will be contacted via Instagram account. *account must be public to be seen.
@alpineskiclub
@alpineskiclub SKIDOODLE 2019 31
2018/19 CHALET TOUR
When Nancy and Walter Pridham turned 80, these pioneer Alpine members decided their skiing days were over and it was time to sell their beloved ski chalet. They found motivated buyers: their daughter Sue and her husband Brad Abbott. For over 30 years the ski chalet had been a gathering place for their growing family and Sue was keen to continue the legacy. SKIDOODLE 2019 32
2018/19 CHALET TOUR
The original 101 Arrowhead Road was a labour of love. Walter’s dream was to own a chalet where they could walk to the hill and their dream was finally realized with the development of the old Arrowhead Ranch property adjacent to Alpine Ski Club. The 2,300 ft.2 Viceroy shell was constructed on lot 101 in the spring of 1984 and with the help of the entire family and friends the interior was completed that summer. When Sue and Brad took possession in 2014, their goal was to modernize, refresh and make the most of the wonderful views of Georgian Bay without compromising the cozy, intimate feel. Working within the existing footprint, Brad, a prominent architect of custom homes, was excited to create a more contemporary space while preserving a few of the original features including the granite fireplace and a pine harvest table handcrafted by Walter. Window and door openings were refitted with oversized windows to maximize views of the Bay. Pine ceilings were painted out white to brighten the interior. Broadloom was replaced with white oak, heated black slate floors were installed, and the stairs were replaced with floating wood treads on steel stringers and iron railings. On the upper level the kitchen, open to living and dining, was updated with new appliances, white cabinets and Caesarstone countertops. The master bedroom benefitted from an enlarged ensuite bath and closet.
On the lower level, the interior hot tub, popular in the 80s, was moved outside and the space converted to a muchneeded mudroom. A wood feature wall at the entrance is repeated in each of the four bedrooms to create continuity. To extend the modern look outside, the exterior facade of the chalet was stained dark charcoal and a metal roof replaced asphalt shingles. The front entrance was given more impact, with the addition of a portico of stone pillars and solid wood timbers. The original deck off the living room was removed and replaced with a smaller BBQ deck that transitions to a stone terrace with outdoor firepit. The final touch was the Alpine Skier mounted on the exterior wall at the entrance, a gift to Walter on his 70th birthday. New home automation features include a security system with keyless entry, a Nest thermostat controlled from an app on their phones, and automated blinds. With a click of the “Goodbye” button, the blinds lower and the lights turn off. Sue and Brad and their young adult children, Tori and Ben, love the look and feel of the new chalet. Nancy and Walt and extended family are regular visitors. To ensure the legacy lives on they gifted the grandchildren a next-generation membership to Alpine. Say Sue and Brad, “We all look forward to many more years of fun and family times at Alpine.”
Acknowledgements: Architecture/Design: Abbott Design Ltd., Custom Homes, Toronto and Collingwood, abbottdesign.ca Interior furnishings: Farrow Arcaro Design F.A.D. Collingwood, farrowarcarodesign.ca Windows and Doors: Ridley Windows & Doors Inc, Vaughan, ridley-windows.com Home automation/security: Redbrick Home Security, Thornbury, redbrickgroup.ca/security SKIDOODLE 2019 33
2018/19 OFF THE SLOPES DINE
Off the Slopes Want to know the hot new spots to hit in the area this winter? Or want the inside scoop for the best of the best? Our local staff and volunteers are here to let you in on what people are talking about:
Occasions Food Hall 49 Huron Street, Collingwood
“Visit us and entertain like a chef.” At Occasions Food Hall you will discover a world of unique fine foods ranging from handcrafted hors d’oeuvres, dessert bites, fully prepared meats, gourmet side dishes, and many other vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free offerings. www.occasionsfoodhall.com
Bent Taco 48 Pine St. Collingwood
Fabbrica at Thornbury 27 Bruce St. South Thornbury
Bringing a taste of Mexico to Collingwood. Try their cauliflower taco, or a “real” margarita! They also have one of the best summer patios options in town, with their “Bent Backyard.”
With its third location, celebrated chef Mark McEwan brings his rustic Italian cuisine to Thornbury. From handmade pastas and seasonal salads to wood-fired pizza and regional antipasti, there is something for every taste.
www.benttaco.com
fabbrica.mcewangroup.ca SKIDOODLE 2019 34
2018/19 OFF THE SLOPES SIP
1858 Caesar Bar
159 Hurontario Street, Collingwood
1858 Caesar Bar is the first Caesar Bar in North America! They offer over 20 unique Caesars to choose from, or you can build your own custom Caesar, all using local, in-house premium handcrafted Caesar additive, Walkers OneShot. They’ll also be one of the only places in town with a patio open all year round! www.1858.ca
Gibson & Company
Crow. Bar and Variety
93 Hurontario Street, Unit 3, Collingwood
18 Huron St. Collingwood
Take a walk off the main drag and down an enchanted alleyway to get to Gibson & Co. where the carefully curated selection of quality coffee, wine, whiskey and beer will keep you warm and cozy.
This new spot is becoming as known for its great offering of live music as it is for its hip social scene. Check out their “crow sessions” for an intimate night of dinner and music.
www.gibsonandcompany.ca
www.crowvariety.ca SKIDOODLE 2019 35
2018/19 OFF THE SLOPES SHOP
Lëuk 78, 124, & 126 Hurontario St. Collingwood Lëuk pronunciation: say lake with a rounded mouth. Now expanded to three different shops on Hurontario St.: Lëuk, Lëuk No2, and Lëuk Huis. You will find art and vintage gifts, European clothing and home décor, and try the new Lëuk café! www.leukbijhermas.ca
Homme Femme 69 Hurontario St. Collingwood This women’s and men’s clothing shop carries a variety of Canadian and European brands as well as trendy accessories, gifts and apothecary. Check them out on Instagram @shophommefemme. SKIDOODLE 2019 36
Squire John’s Main Shop; 209896 Hwy 26 W. Craigleith or at their on-site shop at Alpine
Squire’s isn’t just for tuning and waxing. They have a wide array of clothing, equipment and in the summer even bikes, barbeques and patio furniture! But you already know this as an Alpine-favourite shop. www.squirejohns.com
2018/19 OFF THE SLOPES PLAY
Scenic Caves Nordic Adventures 260 Scenic Caves Rd. The Blue Mountains
Inspired by nature and set in one of Canada’s UNESCO biosphere reserves, Scenic Caves offers outdoor fun from cross-country ski and snowshoe trails, to Ontario’s longest suspension bridge perched 420 feet over an old-growth oak forest. www.sceniccaves.com Offered to Alpine members: Two-for-One Tickets and Two-for-One Ski and Snowshoe Rentals
This offer is valid any day of the week (including weekends) from opening to January 27, then midweek (Monday to Friday) from January 28 to March 3 and any day of the week (including weekends) from March 4 to closing.
Photo: Jason Petznick
Mountain Top Skating Trail
Scandinave Spa 152 Grey Rd. 21. The Blue Mountains
This new attraction is located at the top of Blue Mountain on Scenic Caves Road between the Orchard Express and Southern Comfort chairs. Sharpen your skates and cruise their 1.1 km iceskating loop while enjoying extraordinary views along the Niagara Escarpment.
If you haven’t had the Scandinave Spa relaxation experience by now, you don’t know what you’re missing. Rejuvinate, revitalize and relax in their bath system, steam rooms, saunas or stay cozy by the bonfire. Book a massage and access to the baths is included! www.scandinave.com SKIDOODLE 2019 37
THERE ARE NO LIMITS
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2018-19
ESSENTIALS
GEAR GUIDE
SKIDOODLE 2019 39
ALL ALPINE MEMBERS GET ANY REGULAR PRICED ITEMS AT CORBETTS SKI + SNOWBOARD SHOP
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120 SPEERS RD. OAKVILLE, ON. SKIDOODLE 2019 40 L6K 2E7
TELEPHONE: 905-845-1561
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2018/19 GEAR GUIDE
Essentials Technology is well on the march, and the advancements are reflected in the offerings available on the market. In this section, a tight team of experts have curated some amazing offerings for the benefit of our members, regardless of your preferred activity (including a sneak peek into one that’s about to hit the market!). Some of the source information is included; if not, try our friends at Corbetts (in-store and online) and Squire John’s where one of the benefits of membership is product discounts. Enjoy!
p HEAD NEXO SKI BOOTS LYT 130 & 110 W - $449.99-$749.99
Graphene (one of the strongest materials in the known universe) previously deployed by Head to replace weight with strength in their skis has now made its debut in their boots. Astonishingly lightweight and almost ridiculously customizable, the comfort of this boot will make you doubt its performance, but don’t be fooled. And you’ll appreciate the energy savings at the end of the day. Available in a range of flexes.
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LENZ HEATED SOCKS - $389
Enjoy up to 14 hours of heat, regulated remotely by your smartphone. The natural mix of merino wool and silk supports the excellent heat effect of the sock. Perfect for the outdoor enthusiast that has everything.
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2018/19 GEAR GUIDE
NORDICA DOBERMANN GSR & SLR - $1199.99 including Marker X-Cell 12 binding The sleeker, smoother, faster, reinvented Nordica Dobermann SLR and GSR. These edgy top sheets disguise a wood core and GR400 carbon glass layer construction with a new shovel design, narrower waists for quicker transitions, longer running lengths, and a new raceinspired FDT binding plate to unlock the skis’ true potential. Make the mountain your racecourse. #raceinstinct
NTN ROTTEFELLA FREERIDE TELEMARK BINDINGS - $529
For lift-serviced/in-resort skiing it’s hard to beat the performance & ease of these unisex bindings. It’s also a wonderful bridge binding for alpine skiers looking to venture into the world of telemark. The crowning convenience: with the proper jig they mount onto your alpine ski of choice. Look for Scarpa (narrow), Crispi (medium), and Scott (wide) boots to round out the package. SKIDOODLE 2019 42
2018/19 GEAR GUIDE
HEAD KNIGHT PRO ADULT HELMET - $399.99 This all-mountain helmet with an integrated visor featuring UV 400 protection and anti-fogging qualities is convenient especially for people who wear prescription glasses. The helmet comes with two interchangeable visors: category S3 for bright and category S2 for cloudy conditions.
BURTON STEP ON - $400-$950
Yes, the step-on is back. This quick and intuitive boot-to-binding interface offers convenience and performance in an incredibly simple and secure system. It is universally compatible with all current snowboard mounting systems. Step On and go!
TRACE, THE ACTION SPORTS TRACKER - $199 USD
Trace is a small sensor that attaches directly to your skis/ board (mountain bikeâ&#x20AC;Ś) and tracks your activity with accuracy. The free Trace app syncs with Trace through Bluetooth and gives you an instant summary and analysis of your session including GPS tracking, number of runs, top speed, calories burned, turns, jumps, airtime, and much more. If you took video with GoPro or another camera it automatically edits your entire day of footage to just the actionâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;no editing required. www.traceup.com
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2018/19 GEAR GUIDE
NADI X SMART YOGA PANTS - $229
Designed with woven-in technology, these pants use Bluetooth connectivity to the Nadi X iOS app to lead you through a session, respond to your postures, provide real-time feedback, and offer gentle vibrations to help focus your attention on specific areas of your body. It’s your personal digital yoga teacher anywhere, anytime. www.wearablex.com
NILS SKIER 2 SWEATER - $224.99
This super-cute addition to your on- and off-piste wardrobe features a custom skier design, Nordic details on the sleeve, and a 1/4-zip neck for easy on and off. The ultra-soft spun rayon and spandex composition offers comfort for extended wear.
AND INTRODUCING SKIIN – $199-$299
Here’s a sneak preview only for Alpine members: SKIIN is an ultra-thin merino wool base layer that automatically delivers heat where you need it when you need it with wire-free temperature monitoring controlled via a mobile app or the garment itself. SKIIN powers up only when you need it and powers down when you don’t using the same kind of battery that powers electric cars like Tesla. Read more and pre-order through wwwskiin.com/heat/ SKIDOODLE 2019 45
2018/19 GEAR GUIDE
SMITH I/O MAG GOGGLE â&#x20AC;&#x201C; New this Season $279-$319
Welcome to the future of interchangeable lenses, featuring a magnetic lens connection that locks your optics into place and releases with the push of a lever. Hot swap your lenses in a hurry to keep up with changing lighting conditions.
New this season, the information kiosk inside the clubhouse main entrance will carry a selection of Alpine-branded gear from keychains and belt buckles to bags and garments. The inventory will change over time, so if you like it, get it before itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gone!
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JOIN US FOR OUR
WHERE FUN IS ON THE AGENDA Meet us at the tiki hut
Friday, March 1, 2019 Enjoy an activity-filled day or relax with your BFFs, with an authentic custom Alp-n-Rock gift, prizes, breakfast, lunch, après, dancing to Arden and the Tourists, and more.
Thursday skiing complimentary for ticket holders. Thursday evening dinner & early registration tickets sold separately.
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YOUR ADVENTURE AWAITS. LIVE EVERY SEASON. An exclusive collection of modern suites inspired by mountian chalet-style. Just 10 minutes from Alpine Ski Club.
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